Maldives (Commonwealth Union)_ Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih announced that the government is planning to reinstate primary healthcare services in 2023. The President announced the news during an event organized to launch a series of measures to combat noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). While addressing the event, President Solih discussed the results of the ‘STEPS Noncommunicable Disease Risk Factors Survey 2020-2021’, conducted by the Maldives National University (MNU) in partnership with the Health Protection Agency (HPA) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
According to him, the results shed light on the prevalence of NCDs caused by poor habits and lifestyles. The President noted that this needs immediate public health action and cannot be ignored. The Maldivian leader emphasized that malignant neoplasms, cerebrovascular illnesses, lung diseases, and nephrology are some of the primary causes of the 84 percent high death rate attributable to NCDs.
Noting that diagnosis, testing, and treatment of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) as well as palliative care are essential components of the response to NCDs, President Solih then emphasized the need for promoting healthy lifestyles and wellbeing to avoid NCDs. He also highlighted the significance of the government’s ‘Dhulhaheyo Hashiheyo Eid’ initiative, which was established earlier to encourage health, wellness, and active lifestyles.
In detailing plans to reconstruct primary healthcare services in the island, the president explained that one of the fundamental goals is to enhance public awareness of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), encourage early testing, and provide access to drugs and appropriate treatment. In addition, he stated that the ‘National Cessation Toolkit’ was developed to help smokers quit and is available at all healthcare facilities. He also noted that the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Community Empowerment is now executing a number of initiatives to offer equipment and infrastructure for outdoor gymnasiums, football and futsal fields, and volleyball courts around the islands.
Additionally, steps are being taken by the government to address other athletic requirements. President Solih remarked that vaccinations essential to prevent cervical cancer in girls have been added to the national vaccination program. During the ceremony, the ‘National Multisectoral Action Plan’ was launched, and the President stated that adopting the plan will significantly fix a number of difficulties. Additionally, the president invited all stakeholders to engage in the execution of the action plan.
